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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Nestled in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Wenliang Wang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Cabins Nestled in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the cabins offer a seamless blend of modern shelter and natural integration in Iceland's volcanic landscape, designed specifically for trekkers seeking refuge in the outdoors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
The design incorporates large glass panels for panoramic views and natural light.
03
Modular construction allows for flexibility in placement along trekking routes.
04
Sustainable features include rainwater collection and integration of wind energy.
05
The bent A-frame structure optimizes interior space while reducing visual impact.

### Project Overview

This project comprises a series of modular cabins located in the diverse geological landscape of Iceland. Designed as resting points for trekkers, the cabins provide essential shelter while fostering a strong relationship between the built environment and the surrounding nature. The intent is to create a cohesive experience that enhances the journey through the wilderness, addressing both functional and symbolic needs.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The cabins are characterized by a minimalist design that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Each structure incorporates vertical movement through distinct resting and public spaces, allowing for varied interactions among users while providing adequate amenities. The cabins’ modularity facilitates flexible configurations, catering to specific site contexts and promoting engagement with the natural environment.

Large glass panels incorporated into one side of each cabin afford panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape, encouraging occupants to connect deeply with their surroundings. This strategic use of transparency contrasts with the solid black-painted wooden facades, creating a distinct visual identity that blends into the rugged terrain.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Constructed primarily of black-painted wood, the facades of the cabins contribute to their aesthetic appeal while maintaining durability against harsh weather conditions. The selection of transparent glass enhances the interaction with the landscape, allowing natural light to penetrate the interior. Additionally, the structural components likely utilize steel for strength, although specific details are not emphasized.

Sustainability is a core theme in the design, with features such as rainwater collection and filtration systems integrated into the cabins. Renewable energy sources, including wind turbines, aim to minimize environmental impact while supporting the cabins’ operational needs. This commitment to ecological considerations aligns with the project’s goal of fostering a respectful relationship between architecture and nature.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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